EFF statement rejecting Eskom price hike in face of failure to provide electricity
13 March 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) rejects the upcoming electricity price hike, scheduled for the 1st of April 2024, amidst a total failure by Eskom to provide consistent electricity. This decision is a callous disregard for the harsh realities faced by millions of South Africans.
It was in early 2023 that the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) approved the substantial 33.77% tariff increase which was split over two years. The burden of the hike was predominantly felt last year, with an 18.65% increase, while rates for 2024 are set to surge by the remaining 12.74% from April.
The current economic climate is already suffocating, with rising unemployment, a stagnant economy, and an ever-increasing cost of living. To add another burden in the form of higher electricity bills is not only insensitive but economically disastrous.
This hike will unjustly hit the poor and working class the hardest. Many families already struggle to keep the lights on and put food on the table, and this increase will force them to make impossible choices, jeopardising their basic needs.
Furthermore, Eskom's ongoing struggles have resulted in relentless loadshedding, plunging entire communities into darkness for extended periods. This has crippled small businesses, disrupted livelihoods, and placed a huge strain on essential services like hospitals and water treatment plants. The additional financial burden of a price hike only deepens this crisis.
The EFF maintains that Eskom's woes are a direct result of years of ANC led mismanagement, corruption, and a lack of investment in renewable energy sources.
The burden of these failures cannot be placed on the shoulders of the people, who have a basic right to a consistent supply of electricity.
The EFF stands with South Africans in the struggle for affordable electricity, as made clear in our 2024 manifesto. Under an EFF government, we will revolutionise energy stability by aggressively pursuing a diverse mix of energy sources, leveraging safe coal, nuclear energy, and renewable options such as solar, wind, and hydro-power.
To avoid the reckless and anti-poor increases in tariffs for electricity which will never be a solution for anything, the EFF will introduce a direct grant system to incentivise the widespread adoption of embedded generation technologies, going beyond superficial tax breaks. Additionally, we'll establish a state-owned mining entity to oversee Eskom's coal mines, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality coal at reasonable prices.
These decisive measures, among others, are aimed at delivering a sustainable electricity supply, in stark contrast to the ANC's current trajectory of endless tariff hikes without viable long-term solutions.
Vote EFF on May 29th for solutions to the energy crisis we are facing, and plans to re-capacitate state entities to ensure accessible, affordable electricity for all.
Issued by Sinawo Thambo, National Spokesperson, EFF, 13 March 2024
